DC Design House 2013: The Sitting Room

This weekend marks the opening of the 2013 DC Design House. I was lucky enough to tour the home yesterday – five floors of newly constructed gorgeousness in the picturesque Wesley Heights neighborhood. For those who live in the area, the Design House opens on Sunday, so stop by and experience it firsthand (but hopefully, without the David Gregory drama). For everyone else, I’ll be posting pics here and on Facebook. Enjoy and let me know what you think!

Michael Hampton designed the Sitting Room much like a studio apartment, the custom chaise serving as seating by day and a place to rest by night. Stash a TV in the étagère, fit a minibar in the corner, and you have a tiny but glamorous home sweet home!

I love Michael's innovative use of this faux bois wallpaper by Nobilis. It's cut in squares and hung in an alternating pattern for subtle movement and modern flair. A great tip for homeowners (with the help of pros, of course). In the vestibule and desk area, Michael used a lacquered wallpaper by Phillip Jeffries. High shine without the toxic chemicals - it's perfect!

See it all! Visit the DC Design House April 14^th – May 12^th, 2507 Foxhall Road, NW, Washington, DC. www.dcdesignhouse.com

Images: (1-2) Angie Seckinger, DC Design House, (3-6) Sukio

Friday Fashion: Kate Winslet for Harper's Bazaar UK

Kate Winslet, and her cat-eye liner, are so so glam in April’s issue of Harper’s Bazaar UK. The shoot is simple but its black and white imagery, soft lighting, and vampy attitude are absolutely perfect! By the way, check out Kate’s upper arms and shoulders. Remember, ladies: strong is sexy!

Images: Alexi Lubomirski, Harper's Bazaar UK April 2013

Interiors: Le Royal Monceau Hotel

There's lots to love in the March issue of Lonny Magazine, their story on Le Royal Monceau filling my need for all things glamorous. The hotel's traditional Parisian architecture is punctuated by whimsical touches courtesy of designer Philippe Starck. After navigating through bold common spaces, guests can relax in more subdued surroundings that offer quiet palettes, soft textures, and the occasional "wow."

"A hotel is a shelter for people who deserve our attention, generosity, and consideration." - Philippe Starck

Images: Lonny Magazine

ADE: A “Mother-Father” Moment

On Thursday, when I should’ve been spending time with the beau, I was completely distracted by new images of Kelly Wearstler interiors. And when I say completely, I mean completely and utterly. He seemed confused by my persistent sighing, swooning, and the occasional "Quit playin'!" at pics like the one above. So, I decided to put things in context. I compared Kelly’s creations to the $10k Rolexes that he ogles on occasion, or the beautiful custom wingtips that he simply adores. Everyone has a passion for design, and moments like these reaffirm that I’m simply smitten by interiors. I've got a fever, and I've got it bad.

I’m sure some of you know what I mean. Ever verbally exclaim at the sheer perfection of a design??? As in, "Oh my golly, this is too good not to say it out loud!" Or as the beau would simply say, amending an expletive:

MOTHER-FATHER!

Image: Kelly Wearstler

Interiors: Monique Lhuillier’s Bel Air Home

In honor of Fashion Week, I’m blogging one of my favorite projects, the Bel Air home of designer Monique Lhullier. First spotted in Elle Décor many moons ago, I was instantly drawn to the home's gray palette. It was purposely chosen to give Monique's eyes a respite from all the color and pattern encountered during her workday. Though neutral, the space is incredibly glamorous thanks to a chic selection of furniture and accessories.

In my home I use a lot of soothing colors, like light greys and beiges to make the space feel serene, welcoming and luxurious. - Monique Lhuillier

More than anything, I want my house to feel inviting and reflect my personal sense of style. - Monique Lhuillier

See Monique's Fall 2013 collection on Style.com

Images: (1, 3, 5, 7) Elle Decor, (2, 4, 6, 8) The Coveteur